At my high school, Chanel’s Vamp nail polish (released in 1994) was the buzzy beauty launch. Let’s put it this way: I’m well into the age bracket that should be using the best retinol serums and creams regularly—and I have been for quite some time. After all, most dermatologists recommend starting retinol use in one’s mid-20s or early 30s.

Vogue’s Favorite Retinol Products

“Retinol is a powerhouse when it comes to achieving visible results,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe tells Vogue. “It brightens skin tone, helps clear acne, and boosts skin’s collagen production to address fine lines and wrinkles.” Despite the ingredient’s well-known benefits, I was afraid to tiptoe into regular usage, since—as is also common knowledge—the vitamin A derivative can cause some irritation at first.

Then, about a year ago, I tried Dr. Julius Few Clean Retinol, which was developed by Gywneth Paltrow’s friend, the renowned plastic surgeon named on the bottle. (I was also in high school when Shakespeare in Love hit theaters; since then, wherever Gwyneth goes, I go.) The morning after I first used it, I distinctly remember looking in the mirror and feeling like a light had been turned on under my skin.

That’s my retinol story, but everyone has their own. And whether you’re a retinol newbie or a seasoned user, there’s a cream or a serum on this list that will help you, so to speak, see the light. Find the right retinol for you, and you’ll get very clear on why every dermatologist (and dewy-skinned celebrity) recommends it.

Read on to discover Vogue’s guide to the best retinol treatments for every skin type, with input from the pros. Your cells eagerly await their turnover.

In This Story

Best K-Beauty Retinol Serum: IOPE Retinol Super Bounce Serum

• Why We Love It: Designed for daily use morning and night, IOPE’s lightweight retinol serum stands out for its easy, breezy application. It sinks readily into the skin, leaves a silky finish, and has a soothing feel. Enriched with cypress leaf to calm inflammation and plant-based epidermal growth factor to strengthen the skin barrier, the Korean formula also contains a patented Lacto-Exosome. Derived from green tea, the exclusive ingredient targets elasticity and overall skin density. “IOPE Retinol Super Bounce Serum targets early signs of aging while keeping the skin hydrated and resilient,” says Noah Gratch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and Long Island. “Its stabilized retinol stimulates collagen and cell turnover, while soothing and hydrating ingredients minimize dryness.” According to Dr. Gratch, it’s a particularly good option for younger patients starting preventative anti-aging care, and for those who want firmness and elasticity without irritation.
• Key Ingredients: Cypress leaf, Lacto-Exosome, plant-derived epidermal growth factor
• Retinol Concentration: 1%
• Best For: Firmness, elasticity
• When to Apply: According to IOPE, apply one to two pumps, morning and night. Follow with SPF in the morning. It may also be used as an eye treatment.
• Size: 1.01 fl oz